Torrential rain in northwestern Congo triggered a landslide that killed at least 17 people overnight, authorities said Sunday, warning that the toll could rise as rescuers sifted through rubble from collapsed houses.
The disaster occurred along the Congo River in the town of Lisal in northwestern Mongala province, according to Matthieu Mole, president of civil society organization Forces Vives. The victims lived in houses that were built at the foot of a mountain.
1 DEAD AFTER THE HEAVY RAIN IN AUSTRIA SWEPPED VICTIM IN A BROAD RIVER
At least 17 people have been killed in a landslide in the Democratic Republic of Congo after torrential rain hit the region. (Fox News)
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
“A torrential downpour caused a lot of damage, including a landslide that swallowed several houses,” he said. “The tally is still provisional as the bodies are still under the rubble.”
Governor Cesar Limbaya Mbangisa said machinery was desperately needed to help clear the debris and try to rescue any survivors. The governor also expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and ordered three days of curfew across the province.
